Winter Gear

Basic Winter Equipment

OUTDOOR GEAR TO STAY WARM, DRY & SAFE

by Aaron Ball

There I was,

looking down at my partner’s ski and wondering how we were going to descend the remaining 3,000-foot snow slope to the car after his binding had been ripped completely off. And while I’m quite proud to say that bubble gum literally saved the day, this precarious situation highlights how important it is to be fully prepared when embarking on

an adventure into the winter backcountry. These days, many things I carry in my pack when I recreate and work in the winter come from wishing I'd had them when I needed them. Admittedly, this practice can be a slippery slope to the proverbial kitchen sink, but there are some items that are basic and essential for venturing out on a winter outing. Here is a list that may be helpful for anyone who could use a little guidance. YOUR BRAIN

While it may seem silly to say, your wits are what will keep you from getting into trouble. And this doesn’t mean just your smarts but also how attuned you are to your emotions and motivations. It has been demonstrated time and again that human errors in judgment can lead to unfavorable outcomes. So before you drive up the highway and venture into the beautiful terrain that is literally right off the road, get educated. A PARTNER

All of us have different tolerances for risk, so not everyone may agree with this one. But if something happens while you are out in the winter backcountry, it’s sure nice to have someone there to help you out. Plus, as the saying goes, “two heads are better than one.” So are four hands, legs, and feet better than two.” WATER

Of course this is essential, but how you carry water in the winter is important. I sure love the convenience of a hose coming from my water bladder for summer bike rides, but it freezes up in the winter. The best option is just a basic water bottle stuffed in your pack; an insulated one is even better. FOOD

When starting a fire, you generally start with quick-and-easy burning tinder (paper, dry leaves, etc.). Then you stack kindling on top that burns easily but lasts longer than tinder. Last, you top the fire with logs that continue to provide heat for the long term. Consider this analogy when you pack food for your winter outing. You’ll want some tinder (quick sugary food like Swedish fish or a chocolate bar), some kindling (highcarb items like bread or a bar), and logs (fats and protein like jerky or nuts). To combine them all, there’s nothing better than a simple peanut butter and jelly sandwich. APPROPRIATE CLOTHING

Another saying in the outdoors is that “cotton kills.” A nice cotton hoodie may be fine when it’s dry, but if it gets wet, it’ll suck the heat right out of you. So stick to wool or synthetic materials. Another important element of cold-weather dressing is layering. This means to start with a good base layer of synthetic long underwear. Over the top of those, wear a slightly thicker layer covered by a breathable, waterproof or water-resistant layer. If it’s super cold, you will definitely want an insulating layer that has a lot of loft. Consider how nice a down comforter feels when it’s cold. So a down or synthetic lightweight puffy (a jacket) is essential, especially when you’re not moving around much. SUNSCREEN & SUNGLASSES

Just like at the pool or on the river, sunburns on exposed skin are likely when traveling over snow because of how the rays are reflected right back at you. Also, I’ve seen a few people with sunburned eyes, and it’s not pretty. Make sure you get sunglasses that give you good coverage. While goggles are nice when it’s snowing and blowing, when you work up a sweat, they’ll fog up and become worthless.

SNOW SHOVEL, AVALANCHE PROBE, & AVALANCHE TRANSCEIVER

If you don’t know what these are, then you definitely need to get some training. In the mountains of Colorado, avalanches are ubiqui-

tous. In an avalanche class, you will learn about the importance of these lifesaving tools and how to use them. That being said, these items are also like seatbelts and airbags in a car; if you avoid avalanches in the first place, you’ll never actually use them. Avalanche avoidance is the key. HEADLAMP

While navigating by moon or starlight has a certain appeal, it’s not awesome when you’re just trying to make it back to the car on a cloudy night. You may think this won’t happen because you won’t be out that long, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Oh, and be sure your batteries have a good charge. FIRST AID KIT

This one is only as good as your understanding of how to use it. Some basic bandages and over-the-counter meds are a start, but if you think you want more, consider taking a wilderness first-aid class to learn what other things you should bring. EMERGENCY SHELTER

This does not mean a tent but rather a small, lightweight, and compact tarp. Silicone-impregnated synthetic tarps are great because they tend to be very thin, they shed water, and they block wind super well. In a pinch, a tarp can also serve as a makeshift bivy sack for an injured person.

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This list is basic, and it certainly isn’t complete. For one, what you’re using to travel over the snow (skis, snowboard, snowshoes, etc.) will dictate other items you will want to bring. This list will hopefully provide some ideas though, and may even provide some tips that you hadn’t heard before. Have a great winter and be safe!

To get geared up, please visit our great local suppliers:

• Backcountry Experience • Crows Closet • Pine Needle Dry Goods • Pine Needle Mountaineering • San Juan Expeditions • Ski Barn

If you still need more information, check out the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC), www.avalanche. state.co.us, the American Institute for Avalanche Research and Education (AIARE), www.avtraining.org, and the Friends of the San Juans (FOSJ), www. thesanjuans.org.

Courtesy of Voormi